Deliciously Versatile: A Healthy Family-Friendly Bolognese Recipe

Family-friendly and full of goodness: here is my dietitian-approved bolognese recipe.

Bolognese, a timeless classic, now gets a vibrant makeover in this dietitian-approved recipe that's full of goodness. Perfect for meal planning and batch cooking a versatile healthy family-friendly bolognese recipe ideal for getting prepared for the busy week ahead. While it may not adhere strictly to tradition, it is nutrient-packed and sure to win over even the pickiest of eaters. As someone who likes to meal plan and batch cook but not eat the same thing every night, this bolognese is the perfect option —adaptable, customisable, and really delicious.

Vegetarian or carnivore, this recipe caters to all preferences with ease. Opt for tinned green lentils or Quorn mince to transform it into the perfect meat-free option.

Flexibility is great with this recipe, allowing you to embrace whatever vegetables you or your family prefer. From onions and peppers to mushrooms and grated carrots, it's an easy opportunity to rescue those forgotten vegetables from the depths of your fridge, winning with both flavour and sustainability.

Here are some ways that I like to enjoy this versatile recipe:

Crown a baked potato: change up your basic lunch or dinner with a hearty scoop on top of a fluffy baked potato — a nutrient-dense alternative to the usual beans and cheese.

Stuffed peppers: Create an impressive but simple dish by stuffing bell peppers with this bolognese. Simply add to your favourite rice, stuff into a halved bell pepper, top with cheese and bake until the pepper is soft and the cheese is melted.

Lasagna: Enjoy a classic dish by layering this rich bolognese between sheets of pasta and white sauce. Loved by the whole family and a great option for impressing guests.

Versatile Nutrient-Dense Bolognese

Versatile Nutrient Dense Bolognese

Makes 4 portions.

Ingredients

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 2 carrots grated

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 400g tomato passata

• Fresh basil

• 3 cloves of garlic or 1 teaspoon of garlic paste.

• 1 tbsp tomato puree

• 1 tsp oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1 tsp turmeric

• 1 tsp sugar

• Pinch of salt

• Drizzle of olive oil or rapeseed oil.

• Your choice of protein: 1 tin of green lentils (drained) or 300g Quorn mince or 400g lean beef mince.

• Other suitable vegetables you could add or swap: courgette (grated), aubergine (chopped), cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, celery (finely chopped),

Method:

1. Finely chop the onion and selected vegetables.

2. Heat olive or rapeseed oil in a large frying pan or saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the onion until soft, about 3-4 minutes, then add the vegetables and sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes.

3. Stir in the garlic, dried herbs, and tomato paste, ensuring they are well incorporated.

4. Add your chosen protein and sauté for 3-4 minutes to infuse it with the flavors. For beef mince, cook until no longer pink.

5. Pour in the tomato passata, seasoning with salt and sugar to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 15-20 minutes to develop its full flavor.

6. Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the bolognese.

7. Serve scooped on top of a a baked potato, within a stuffed pepper, layered in a lasagna, or classically paired with spaghetti for a meal that's as versatile as it is delicious.

Sophie x